It’s Christmas time in Canarsie.
The Seddio family once again drew a large crowd as it unveiled its massive holiday display as part of a larger-than-life celebration on Sunday, December 6 at the corner of Flatlands Avenue and East 93rd Street in Canarsie.
The display, now in its 29th year, features over 500,000 lights, close to 100 animated dolls, a talking Christmas tree, an animatronic winter wizard, ice skating Smurfs and a 12-foot Ferris wheel, among other attractions and décor.
“This year’s display is the most fantastic we’ve ever put together,” said Frank Seddio, a lifelong Canarsie resident, community advocate, local attorney and chair of the Kings County Democratic Party. “We finally figured out a way to animate our hot air balloon—which will now go up and down beside our home over 20 feet.”
Valued at over $350,000, the display, and the celebration that goes along with its opening, is not just for show. Each year, an important community member is memorialized at the opening of the display.
This year, Mill Basin resident Detective Randolph Holder—shot and killed on duty in October—was remembered during the opening night ceremony, which also featured musical renditions by local groups as well as a visit from Santa, elves and a dozen costumed characters.
Live entertainment was provided by the Public School 115 chorus and the choir of Mary Queen of Heaven, as well as the Metro Steele Orchestra, which performed Christmas carols on steel drums.
The display – constructed annually by volunteers who dedicate close to a month to the project – will be up until the New Year.
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